Let me understand your precious word this day. In the name
of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I pray. Amen.
How do you feel when people refuse to listen to and believe
you, no matter how compelling your arguments or proof are? In today's chapter,
Job, who feels misjudged and patronized, expresses his displeasure by
delivering a scathing critique of his friends' advice.
Do they believe they have a better understanding of God's
majesty, might, and wisdom than he does? He declares (verse 3) that he is not
inferior to you and sets out to prove it. Their ostensibly deep comprehension
of God's sovereignty is well-known. 'Every living thing's life and the breath
of all people are in his hands' (verse 10). Even the animals, birds, fish, and
plants recognize that God is in charge (verses 7–9)!
What kind of friends would treat Job as if he were a joke
and kick him while he was down (verses 4–5)? They've gotten fixated on his
alleged guilt, refusing to examine any other possible cause for his misery. He
invites them to put his words to the test (verse 11). Why do criminals dwell in
peace and security (verse 6) if pain is reserved for the wicked? Why does God
feel compelled to bring so many respected counsellors, kings, judges, and
priests to their knees (verses 13–25)? Is it possible that God's ways are more
complicated than they think?
How can Job know if he is acceptable to God if riches and
health aren't indicators of righteousness in God's eyes? Job wants to present
his case before God because he is the only one who can answer this question and
declare Job innocent.
Have you ever been mistaken for someone else? Our accusers,
thankfully, do not have the ultimate say. Jesus (John 5.22) has been given the
right to judge by God, and he is not only our judge, but also our rescuer.
'Therefore, for those who are in Christ Jesus, there is now no condemnation'
(Romans 8.1). This is tremendously encouraging news!